You have invested a lot of money in the best workout headphones and you have been enjoying how much they have amped up your workout; however, after using them for a while, you realize that there are issues with the ear pads. The ear pads aren’t providing as much cushioning as they did when you first bought your headphones, and they are even starting to develop a funny smell. Even if you have the best workout headphones, after a while, the quality of the ear pads can be compromised. They can start to crack, flake or break apart, which can not only impact the comfort of your headphones, but can also impact the sound quality. Additionally, as you workout, the ear pads on your workout headphones collect your sweat and the oils and wax from your ears, which can make them quite unsanitary.
While cleaning the ear pads of your headphones is possible, doing so won’t guarantee that you have removed all of the dirt and debris that has collected on them, and it won’t repair any cracks, flaking or other damage that they have endured. If you are thinking about buying a new pair of headphones, >you don’t have to!Instead of dropping even more money on new headphones (and the very thought makes you shudder, because you know how much you spent on the best headphones for running,) replace the ear pads. Many people don’t know that headphone ear pads can be changed. They just assume that once the ear pads start falling apart, they have to toss their headphones and buy a new set. If you throw out your headphones, you are literally throwing out money! Replacing the cushions on your headphones is possible, and it is actually very easy to do. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about replacing your workout headphone ear pads.
When is it Time to Replace Your Headphone Ear Pads
The first step in replacing your headphone ear pads is knowing the signs that indicate it is time to replace them. Even the most durable headphones will need to be replaced eventually. Each time you wear your headphones, you are putting strain on the ear pads. The simple act of putting them on and taking them off can cause damage/b>. Whether you are running, walking, lifting weights or doing any other type of exercise, the shock of your movement is absorbed by the ear pads, and that shock can compromise their cushioning.
The wear and tear of headphone ear pads is gradual, so how do you know when it is time to change them? Here is a look at some of the telltale signs that indicate your headphone ear pads need to be replaced.
- They’re Tearing or Cracking - If your headphone ear pads have a protein leather cover, they can start to tear and crack after a while. As you put them on and take them off, the material is stretched, which can cause damage. As you wear them, the material absorbs your sweat. The material is also exposed changes in weather conditions. If you notice that your headphone pads are starting to crack or tear, it’s time to replace them.
- They are Flat - Every time you wear your headphones, you are putting pressure on the ear pads. This pressure will eventually impact the cushioning. Over time, that cushioning will start to become flat. You will be able to notice that cushioning in your ear pads is starting to go flat when they start to become uncomfortable. Additionally, you will start to notice an impact on the quality of the sound that they are producing.
- An Odor - Your headphone ear pad are constantly exposed to dirt, wax, sweat and other bacteria. As all of this builds up on the ear pads, they will start to develop an odor. That odor will be musty and may be similar to the scent of mold.
- Unstable - Wear and tear will eventually make your ear pads unstable. They will start to slip off of your ears, which not only makes them uncomfortable, but also makes them less effective.
Buying Replacement Headphone Ear Pads
Buying replacement ear pads is as simple as going online. There are plenty of online retailers that sell replacement ear pads; however, with so many retailers and so many options, it can be difficult to choose a reputable retailer, and it can also be difficult to determine what type of ear pads you should buy.
If you are shopping online for replacement ear pads for your headphones, you will be able to tell a retailer is reputable by the type of products they offer. Ear pad replacements should be constructed of high quality materials, they should be durable, and they should come with all of the components that you need to ensure the replacements are just as good – if not better – than the original ear pads your headphones came with.
Types of Headphone Ear Pad Replacements
There are several types of ear pad replacements available for all types of headphones. Replacement options include:- Waterproof earphones
- Sport Bluetooth headphones
- Sports earphones
- Gym headphones
- Athletic earbuds
- And these are just a few of the options that are available.
- Superb noise blocking isolation
- Exceptional comfort
- Durable construction
- The highest quality materials
- Dense padding and memory foam cushioning
- Unique and attractive designs, which allow you to customize your headphones to your specific taste and style
How to Replace Your Headphone Pads
Once you purchase your headphone replacement pads, knowing how to properly install them is paramount. If they aren’t installed properly, even the highest quality replacement pads will not be comfortable, and they will not provide the sound quality that they are designed to deliver.Removing The Old Headphone Ear Pads
The first step in installing your new replacement headphone ear pads is removing the old ones. This may seem like a tricky process, but it is actually pretty simple. Headphone ear pads can easily be removed by giving them a gentle tug. As you tug, the ear pads will detach from the headphones and ‘pop’ off. However, before you start tugging, make sure you first examine your headphones. Some ear pads are attached to headphones with screws. If you notice any screws, tugging on the ear pads will not remove them; you are going to need a screwdriver to do that.
Take note of the type of screws; they will either be flat head or Philips head. You should also take note of the size of the screws; typically, they are small. Use the appropriate screwdriver to remove the screws, and hold onto them; while you may not need them to install your replacement ear pads, it is a good idea to keep them, just in case.
Installing Your Replacement Headphone Ear Pads
Once you have removed the original headphone pads, you can put the new ones on. To apply them, all you have to do is stretch out the back flap of the cushion and place it over the ear portion of the headphones. While installing your new headphone replacement pads, make sure that the flap is securely wrapped over the headphones. You also want to make sure that the cushioning is placed properly on the headphones. Once the new pads are in place, give them a test drive. Take note of how comfortable they are and the sound quality they are producing. If necessary, make adjustments to improve the comfort and the sound.Caring For Your Headphones
Once your new headphone replacement pads are installed, it is important to take proper care of them to ensure they will remain comfort and will produce great sound. While you will eventually need to replace your replacement ear pads, too, taking good care of them will extend their life so that you can get more use out of them. Here are some care tips to keep in mind so that you can keep your headphones in great condition:Store Them
When you aren’t using your headphones, store them in a safe place. You can purchase a protective bag or box to put them in, which will prevent the buildup of dust, dirt and debris when they aren’t in use. Storing them will also prevent your headphones from being broken.
Clean them
In addition to storing your headphones, you should also clean them. Every time you wear your headphones, the ear pads are exposed to dirt, oil, ear wax and sweat. All of that dirt and debris can minimize the life expectancy of your headphone ear pads, which means you will have to get a new pair sooner than you should have to. Additionally, that dirt and debris will make your headphone ear pads unsanitary and could potentially cause an infection or a rash to develop; not to mention the smell that they will eventually develop. To clean your headphone ear pads, follow these tips:- Wipe them off with a clean towel after each use
- Soak a soft cloth in gentle dish detergent and water. Wring the excess water out of the cloth and gently wipe it around the cushions. Pat the ear pad cushions dry with a dry towel.
- Use a gently toothbrush to clean the mesh portion of your headphones. The bristles of the toothbrush will help to dislodge any dirt and debris that has collected on this part of the headphones, thus making them more sanitary and improving their sound quality.
Proper Use
In addition to storing and cleaning your headphones, you also want to make sure that you use them properly. If they aren’t used properly, not only can you damage the ear pads, but you can also damage the structure and the electronic components of the headphones. While using your headphones, avoid exposing them to liquids (unless they are waterproof,) and extreme temperatures.Bottom Line
Replacing your headphone ear pads is a lot easier than you may think; doing so will save you a lot of money, and will allow you to enjoy listening to your favorite tunes while you are working out with excellent sound quality and with great comfort.
Remember to keep an eye on your headphone ear pads and replace them when they are showing any signs of wear and tear, otherwise, you could end up doing serious damage to your headphones.